Abstract: An electrical distribution control system for a vehicle such as an aircraft may be provided fire-suppression protection without requiring that all control elements are located in a fire-containment enclosure. A primary electric load center (ECL) may be located in a fire-containment equipment bay. Secondary power control centers (SPC's) may be located away from the equipment bay and close to set of loads which are controlled by the SPC's. Each SPC may be provided with a fire detecting sensor that may signal the ECL to interrupt input power to the SPC in the event of a fire in the SPC. The SPC may be constructed from self-extinguishing material. In an absence of input power to the SPC, a fire may self extinguish, thus preventing flame propagation or production of excessive external heat.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for restricting operation of a power delivery system are disclosed. In at least some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first input terminal at which is received a first command signal, and a second input terminal at which is received an additional signal. The apparatus further includes an output terminal at which is provided a control signal, and a circuit that generates the control signal based at least indirectly upon the first command and additional signals. The control signal generated by the circuit is configured to cause the power delivery system to not deliver at least one type of power when the first command signal indicates a command to do so, if the additional signal indicates an acceptability status. In some embodiments, the power delivery system is an isolation system (e.g., safety isolation system) as are employed in industrial environments, and the apparatus is a permissive module.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a safety switching device for a hazardous area defined by motor-driven components, the device being switchable into at least two control stages, wherein in a first control stage at least some of the motor-driven components can be switched into a state of reduced risk potential and in at least one second control stage at least some of the motor-driven components can be shut off, and wherein the safety switching device comprises an apparatus for determining the position of the safety switching device inside the hazardous area.

Abstract: A power unit including a plurality of series-connected battery modules and safety circuit wherein a service plug is inserted from the side of a terminal board of a battery pack, thereby establishing an electrical connection among battery modules. A connector is provided on a back of a terminal cover by way of a projecting section, and a second safety switch is activated by attachment of a terminal cover and insertion of the connector to the terminal board, thereby establishing an electrical connection among the battery modules. Even when the service plug is attached at the time of completion of maintenance without attachment of the terminal cover, the battery modules are still kept in an unconnected state by means of a second switch, and energization, which would otherwise arise with exposed terminals, is prevented.

Abstract: A robotic crash protector device is configured for heavy payload applications. The device includes a housing, a piston and an actuator movably mounted within the housing, a cam member secured within the housing in fixed relation to the housing's base, and a switch. The cam member includes a cam surface with some portions being closer to the housing's base than other portions. The actuator includes bearing members that are configured to, responsive to a rotational force imparted to the actuator, move along the cam surface and thereby collectively displace the piston. The switch detects this displacement and indicates a crash. When moving along the cam surface, the bearing members are each configured to engage the surface along a line of contact, rather than at a single point. With forces imparted to each bearing member and the cam surface distributed across a line, the components better endure heavy payload applications.

Abstract: Whether a safety function unit having a safety function of a desired standard is correctly mounted in a safety device having a configuration in which a basic control function and safety function are separated is accurately determined. The safety device includes a controller and the safety function unit. The controller is provided with a unit which selects a category for identifying a safety function unit which should be connected, a unit which transmits a reference signal to the safety function unit, a unit which determined, based on a category identification signal returned from the safety function unit, whether or not the category of the connected safety function unit coincides with a selected category, and a unit which, in the event that the result of the determination is such that the category of the connected safety function unit and the selected category do not coincide, prohibits the output of a control signal.

Abstract: An electrical shorting stick and method of using it. The apparatus and method allow the user to work on or about high-voltage equipment at tremendously reduced risk of accidental electrocution. The apparatus permits the user to secure a reliable short-circuit of the equipment to the absolute ground, so that current cannot be directed through the bodies of the service crew. The apparatus is placed into contact with the equipment of interest. While in contact with the equipment, the apparatus is manipulated by the user to safely discharge to absolute ground all potentially hazardous electrical current. The apparatus has a handle assembly movable upon a main road assembly. When the handle assembly is placed into a first position, current is directed from the equipment to the absolute ground via the apparatus including a resistor.

Abstract: A safety disconnect system for a cellular antenna array on a support structure includes an enclosure mountable to a support structure. A fixed connector secured within the enclosure has contacts connected to conductors of at least a first digital data and control cable. A moveable connector within the enclosure includes corresponding contacts connected to conductors of a second digital data and control cable. The two connectors are selectively mated to engage the contacts of the two connectors. When the connectors are mated, transceivers within a base transceiver station (BTS) receive signals from a base station controller (BSC) and transmit RF energy via an array of antennas. A gripping handle secured to the moveable connector has a size and configuration selected to be grasped by a gloved hand to move the moveable connector away from the fixed connector in a rapid and safe manner to disable further transmissions by the transceivers.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle to prevent injuries deduced by misoperation is provided in the present invention. The electrical receptacle includes a power socket, a direct current (DC) power supply, a detecting switch, a controller, and a relay form a circuit loop for detecting whether a power plug is inserted into the power socket. The detecting switch is placed under the power socket without any electrical connection with the power socket. A live wire is connected to the power socket via a switch of the relay and a neutral wire is connected to the power socket directly. The switch of the relay closes on condition of the relay is electrified by the DC power supply.

Abstract: A panel is provided on a front side of an electronic device. A driving unit opens and closes the panel. A position detecting unit detects whether the panel is open. An object detecting unit detects whether there is an object on the panel when the panel is open. A control unit controls the driving unit not to close the panel when there is an object on the panel.

Abstract: A stove knob timer device for use with a stove prompts a user to monitor a cooking event through a series of increasingly aggressive audible prompts. The timer device includes a main housing for engaging a stove operational shaft and which, when rotated to activate a respective stove burner, actuates a timer. After a predetermined time, a speaker is activated to emit an audible alarm to prompt a user to monitor the stove and to require a reset button to be pressed. If the reset button is not pressed in a predetermined time, the speaker is actuated to emit a more aggressive alarm so as to more urgently or even awaken a user. If the timer is reset, the original predetermined time is restarted. The timer device may include programming to adjust between timer modes and have structures enabling universal fit on various stove configurations.

Abstract: A capacitive sensing system for use with a power cutting tool of the type which has an exposed, moveable blade adjacent a work surface is disclosed. The sensing system drives an excitation voltage onto the exposed blade and monitors the current drawn from the blade, detects changes in the amplitude and phase and analyzes the characteristics of the changes to selectively trigger a reaction system.

Abstract: A power supply system for use with a component comprises at least three phases of power supply, with each of said three phases passing through a solid state power controller having an on/off switch. Each of the phases of power pass through a current sense transformer. A ground fault circuit receives an outlet from the current sense transformer. The ground fault circuit includes an analog filter connected into a digital processor. An output of the digital processor is operable to control the switches on the solid state power controllers. The three phases distribute power to the component when the switch on their associated solid state power converter is on.

Abstract: A safety device for the emergency interruption of the drilling maneuvering in a drilling machine is provided with a guide tower or mast (17) and a device (10) for realizing the driving in the ground of drilling elements. The device includes at least a frame (12) fixed to the mast and provided with at least an arm or a door (11) rotating around an axis (Y) with respect to the frame. A microswitch (23) is activated by the movements of rotation given to the door (11) for stopping at least some of the dangerous drilling maneuvering.

Abstract: An energy supply unit for a measuring device for determining and/or monitoring a physical or chemical, process variable of a medium. Included is at least one voltage limiting unit and/or at least one current limiting unit in the energy supply unit, wherein the voltage limiting unit is embodied in such a manner that arising voltages remain under a value, which leads to an explosion in an explosion-endangered area, and wherein the current limiting unit is embodied in such a manner that arising currents and/or heatings associated therewith remain under a value, which leads to an explosion in an explosion-endangered area.

Abstract: At the time of an occurrence of failures of an inverter, both of two switching elements of the buck-boost converter are switched on so that electric charge is discharged from the smoothing capacitor that smoothes voltage between terminals of the inverter regardless of whether a collision of a vehicle occurs or not (S110, S120). Thus, the electric charge can be securely discharged from the smoothing capacitor at the time of an occurrence of the collision of the vehicle even when at least one of a motor and the inverter is damaged. Also, the electric charge can be securely discharged from the smoothing capacitor at the time of the occurrence of the failures of the inverter.

Abstract: A facility is described for the automatic recognition and differentiation of single-channel or dual-channel electronic sensors, which are connected to a dual-channel safety combination with two connecting line pairs for emergency stop facilities in the form of electronic sensors or emergency stop buttons, with a first connecting conductor pair being provided for single-channel operation and the first and a second connecting line pair being provided for dual-channel operation of the safety combination, said facility comprising an ohmic resistance arranged in at least a first connecting line of the second connecting line pair and a transistor connected by its emitter or collector to a first side of the ohmic resistance and by its base to a second side of the ohmic resistance in such a manner that during a current flow through a dual-channel electronic sensor connected to both connecting conductor pairs a voltage drop at the ohmic resistance switches the transistor, so that an output signal is generated at the c

Abstract: A modular irrigation controller includes a processor for executing a watering program and turning a plurality of irrigation valves ON and OFF in accordance with the watering program. The irrigation controller includes a plurality of receptacles for each receiving a station module including a station module circuit connectable to a corresponding one of the irrigation valves. A manually actuable mechanism locks the station module in the corresponding receptacle and applies power to the processor when the station module is locked.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for protected operation of dangerous motor appliances, especially gardening appliances, such as hedge or edge clippers, power saws and lawnmowers. The object of the invention is to provide solutions by which advantages in terms of operating safety are achieved during operation of motor appliances, especially hand-held gardening and forestry appliances as well as power tools. In an initially abstract description, this object is achieved according to the invention by an appliance safety system for averting dangerous operating situations in the use of motor-powered appliances. This system comprises field-preparing means for generating a capacitive spatial alternating field and detecting means for detecting a condition that can be classified as dangerous and/or shutdown by detecting relevant electric-field effects during penetration of an object into the zone being sensed by each field.

Abstract: A movable barrier operator system wherein one or more of the various components of the system is configured to operate selectively in at least either of two operational modes. Each operating mode is characterized by a corresponding energy usage profile. The operational status of the system is monitored and operating modes are selected that serve both to substantially ensure proper operation given current likely operational expectations and an overall desire to reduce energy consumption.

Abstract: An electronic device includes an inner cover for covering a power source and electronic parts such as substrates contained in the inside of the device, an inlet for power cord plug formed to the inner cover for connecting the device to a commercial power supply and a cover to be fitted to the inner cover so as to cover the inner cover, the cover being provided with an inlet protecting section to be engaged with the inlet, the inner cover being made accessible by pulling out the power cord plug.

Abstract: Method for the control of an electric fence energizer of any given power, guaranteeing that, during each pulse emitted by the energizer, any human body that might have come into contact with the electric fence since a recent pulse does not run the risk of receiving a dangerous electric shock by reason of the pulse in progress.

Abstract: An electric tool has a handle, and an element for varying tool functions located in the handle and including a photoelectric cell incorporated onto the handle in such a way that if the photoelectric cell is completely or partly covered, a tool function is achieved on a specification in accordance with a predetermined sequence.

Abstract: A communication interface, between a control unit and a high voltage unit, includes a serial communication link between the control unit and the high voltage unit. The interface includes a signal transformer arranged as an isolation barrier between the control unit and the high voltage unit to ensure personal safety.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a touch-sensitive paper shredder control system. The touching feature is implemented through a series of electronic circuits, taking input from a conductive touch panel on the shredder feed throat, processing the signal, and through a motor driving circuit, stopping the mechanical parts of the shredder. The system has a touch detection circuit unit, which contains a bioelectricity controlled switching circuit to sense the conductive touch panel. The bioelectricity controlled switching circuit is configured to trigger a ground switching circuit in the touch detection circuit unit which outputs to a multifunction control circuit unit. The control circuit unit then takes care of the remaining protection issues. The touching device for paper shredders protects humans and other living beings including pets from injuries through automatic and real time monitoring. The complete control process is both safe and sensitive.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses, inter alia, a rail vehicle with a wagon body and with contact devices which are connected to the wagon body and which remain in contact with at least one rail on the track side during operation of the rail vehicle, wherein the wagon body and at least one of the contact devices are connected to each other through an electrical resistance device. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the resistance device includes a greater electric resistance in a voltage region with low voltage than in a voltage region with comparatively higher voltage.

Abstract: A safety switching device comprises a position encoder, such as a potentiometer, for user selection of an operational quantity, such as an operating mode. The position encoder has a first terminal, a second terminal, and a tap moveable through a plurality of positions. A total impedance is defined between the first terminal and the second terminal. A first partial impedance is defined between the first terminal and the tap, and a second partial impedance is defined between the tap and the second terminal. An arrangement for determining an instantaneous position of the tap comprises a first evaluation circuit designed to determine a first measurement value representative of the first partial impedance, and a second evaluation circuit designed to determine a second measurement value representative of the second partial impedance. At least one from the first and second evaluation circuits is designed to determine the instantaneous position of the tap by means of the first and second measurement values.

Abstract: An automatic power-off protection apparatus includes an alternating current (AC) input; an AC output connected to the AC input via power wires that comprises a naught wire and a live wire; a switching unit for enabling and disabling a connection between the AC input and the AC output; a first pair of coupling coils for producing a first induced AC voltage; a second pair of coupling coil for a second induced AC voltage; an operational amplifier for amplifying a voltage difference between induced voltages across the first secondary coil and the second secondary coil; a first and second comparator for comparing the amplified voltage difference with a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage respectively. The automatic power-off protection apparatus cuts off the path between the AC input and the AC output when detecting current leaks.

Abstract: An electrical shorting stick and method of using it. The apparatus and method allow the user to work on or about high-voltage equipment at tremendously reduced risk of accidental electrocution. The apparatus permits the user to secure a reliable short-circuit of the equipment to the absolute ground, so that current cannot be directed through the bodies of the service crew. The apparatus is placed into contact with the equipment of interest. While in contact with the equipment, the apparatus is manipulated by the user to safely discharge to absolute ground all potentially hazardous electrical current. The apparatus has a handle assembly movable upon a main road assembly. When the handle assembly is placed into a first position, current is directed from the equipment to the absolute ground via the apparatus including a resistor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to combination control systems employing at least one intermediate module between different control modules and, in one embodiment, relates to a system for isolating a load from multiple power sources. The system includes a first power isolation system capable of receiving a first power from a first input port and determining whether the first power is communicated to a first output port, and a second power isolation system capable of receiving a second power from a second input port and determining whether the second power is communicated to a second output port. The system further includes an intermediate module connected with the first and second power isolation systems, where the intermediate module allows for at least one intermediate control signal to be provided to both of the power isolation systems.

Abstract: A sensor unit is disclosed with a safety system for use with a signal generator, where at least one evaluation unit is provided for evaluating a signal from a sensor and for producing a first trigger signal based on the signal. In at least one embodiment, a more compact and less expensive version of a sensor unit is provided, which operates reliably under high safety demands. In at least one embodiment, this is achieved by a safety system which has a checking unit for checking the operation of the evaluation unit using a test signal. The test signal is processed by the evaluation unit in the same way as the signal from the sensor. The two-channel output is provided on the basis of a conclusiveness check in the checking unit.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement for discharging an energy storage system for electrical energy, particularly in a vehicle having a hybrid drive line, by means of a first discharge resistor, wherein a coolant such as carbon dioxide gas is provided to the first discharge resistor during discharge of the energy storage system for leading off heat as well as a hybrid vehicle comprising such an arrangement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the operation of a wind power plant (10), wherein in particular the wind power plant (10) will be or is switched off after a shutdown signal is triggered by a safety shutdown device (20) that is logically superordinate to an operating control system. The method is characterized in that the wind power plant (10) is released for operation by means of an operating device (41) that is spatially separated from the wind power plant (10) after a safety shutdown. The invention also relates to an energy supply system with at least one wind power plant (10). Moreover, the invention relates to a safety chain on a wind power plant.

Abstract: A shock prevention device for an electrical distribution board having at least one incoming terminal and one or more bus conductors for distributing electrical power from the incoming terminal to a plurality of outgoing conductor terminals projecting from a housing of the distribution board, the shock prevention device comprising an insulating body adapted to receive and shroud at least one conductor terminal; a moveable element moveable relative to the body so as to place the device in one of a first configuration in which the device can be fitted to or removed from the distribution board so as to cover the exposed terminal and a second configuration in which the device is braced between the conductor terminal and part of the distribution board housing, whereby removal of the device is prevented; and means for locking the moveable element in the second configuration.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a touch-sensitive paper shredder control system. The touching feature is implemented through a series of electronic circuits, taking input from a conductive touch panel on the shredder feed throat, processing the signal, and through a motor driving circuit, stopping the mechanical parts of the shredder. The system has a touch detection circuit unit, which contains a bioelectricity controlled switching circuit to sense the conductive touch panel. The bioelectricity controlled switching circuit is configured to trigger a ground switching circuit in the touch detection circuit unit which outputs to a multifunction control circuit unit. The control circuit unit then takes care of the remaining protection issues. The touching device for paper shredders protects humans and other living beings including pets from injuries through automatic and real time monitoring. The complete control process is both safe and sensitive.

Abstract: An automotive drive system for a high voltage electric motor comprises a microcontroller and ECU powered by a low voltage (12 volt) bus net which controls the drives of a high voltage inverter powered by a 100 volt or higher source, which, in turn, drives the motor. To provide good electrical insulation between the low voltage and high voltage systems, the low voltage control signals are produced by a low voltage signal input chip which has a bottom electrode which produces a control potential responsive to the ECU output and a high voltage driver IC which drives the power devices of the high voltage inverter. The high voltage driver IC has a top electrode which drives the high voltage IC function. The bottom electrode of the LV input chip is coupled to the top electrode of the high voltage driver IC through an insulation layer, defining a capacitive coupler which defines an isolation barrier between the low voltage net and the high voltage system insulation.

Abstract: Personnel activity at a construction site is tracked using electronic circuitry included in hard hats worn by personnel at the site. According to one embodiment, activity at a construction site is monitored by processing personal information directly or indirectly received from electronic circuitry formed as part of one or more hard hats worn by personnel located at the construction site. The personal information is uniquely associated with individual ones of the personnel. One or more messages are generated based on the personal information received from the electronic circuitry and personnel location. For example, the messages may warn particular personnel that they have entered an unauthorized area at the construction site. Optionally, personnel activity may be periodically monitored and reported.

Abstract: An installation is disclosed which can be switched on again by way of a common switch-on key. A pulse processing device integrated into the respective emergency off device is required for putting the emergency-off device for predetermined period of time after the switch-on pulse of the switch-on pulse of the switch-on key into an activation mode in which it can be switched on when no switch-off signal is available. It is thus possible to take the reaction times of the individual devices or actuators required for the cascading of emergency-off devices for switching on into consideration for a common switch-on operation.

Abstract: A modular switchgear includes a connecting device having a plurality of positions; a plurality of output modules coupled to the connecting device, each of the output modules having a switching device, the switching device configured to set a number representing a position on the connecting device; and a plurality of input modules coupled to the connecting device, each input module having a position on the connecting device; wherein each input module is associated with the output module having its position set on a specific output module and ending with the next higher designated position set on a different output module minus 1.

Abstract: A linearly actuated switch assembly is adjustably disposed in a housing stem bore of a robotic crash protector device. An actuation plate is disposed over the central bore of the contact surface. As the piston moves toward the housing base in response to a crash force or torque applied to the actuator, the actuation plate moves in an axial direction, and contacts and actuates the switch. The actuation plate is biased towards the contact surface by an actuation spring disposed between the actuation plate and a spring plate that is rigidly affixed to the housing stem. This arrangement allows the actuation plate to “float” with respect to the fixed spring plate. In particular, the actuation plate may assume the orientation of the piston, which may be canted from its default orientation—normal to the device central axis—by uneven application of force by the actuator.

Abstract: Control circuits for a riding lawn mower. The control circuits provide an override condition for selectively allowing the cutting blades of the lawn mower to operate when the vehicle is traveling in reverse. The circuits incorporate an ignition switch (8), an override switch (80), a vehicle reverse switch (40), and an operator presence switch (12). In one aspect of the invention, the control circuits disable the engine when the vehicle is placed in reverse with the PTO engaged and without the override condition having been established. In another aspect of the invention, an electric PTO clutch (60) is disabled when the vehicle is placed in reverse with the PTO engaged and without the override condition having been established. The override condition is terminated when the vehicle is turned off, or when the operator deactivates the manual override switch.

Abstract: The invention provides a sensor assembly which can sense human tissue in a protected area of a machine. An emitter plate and a plurality of sensor plates are disposed co-planar to each other and adjacent to the protected area of the machine. An electric field is generated between the emitter plate and the sensor plates and directed towards the protected area. The sensor plates produce electrical signals corresponding to the electric field received at the sensor plate. The electrical signals are amplified, measures, and analyzed to determine if human tissue is within the protected area. If human tissue is detected, a machine interface circuit will shut down the machine to prevent injury.

Abstract: An electronic device includes an inner cover for covering a power source and electronic parts such as substrates contained in the inside of the device, an inlet for power cord plug formed to the inner cover for connecting the device to a commercial power supply and a cover to be fitted to the inner cover so as to cover the inner cover, the cover being provided with an inlet protecting section to be engaged with the inlet, the inner cover being made accessible by puling out the power cord plug.

Abstract: Task—To provide a worker safety management system that can adapt itself to changes in the conditions of the workers and the machines in a flexible manner and can finely manage the safety of the worker. Means to Achieve the Task—Worker safety is managed by using safety management information stored in an ID tag. The safety management information includes a work area code indicating a work area permitted to the corresponding worker and a danger avoiding capability code indicating a danger avoiding capability of the worker. The danger avoiding capability indicated by the danger avoiding capability code is determined from a worker skill of the corresponding worker that is evaluated in a standardized manner from past work experience of the corresponding worker and credits earned in a safety education program, and a specific degree of danger in the work area permitted to the worker.

Abstract: There is provided an electrically conductive band wearable on a user. The band includes an extendable strap having first and second end portions and a contact surface. The strap is formed of electrically conductive threads distributed along the contact surface. The band further includes a buckle including a recessed notch having a conduction member disposed therein. The conduction member is electrically connected to the conductive threads when the conductive threads are in contact with the conduction member. The buckle also includes a fastening element that is in electrical communication with the conduction member and is electrically connectable to a grounding wire. The buckle further includes a locking member being pivotable to secure the conductive threads adjacent the conduction member. A primary connector is coupled to the second end portion of the strap and includes a primary attaching portion that is attachable to a buckle attaching element.

Abstract: A safety switch for reliably switching off a dangerous device has an actuator which can be moved between a first position and at least one second position. It also has a detector for detecting the actuator in at least one of the said positions. The detector comprises a transponder with an individual transponder identification and a reading unit for reading out the transponder identification. The transponder and the reading unit are arranged relative to one another such that the reading unit is capable of reading out the transponder in the first position of the actuator but not in its second position.

Abstract: The invention relates to an overload protection device (1) comprising a housing (2) which is designed to be fixed to a manipulation device. The overload protection device comprises a tool holder (3) for fixing a tool that is attached to the housing in a displaceable manner, a pre-tensioning unit (4) for generating a pre-tensioning force between the housing and the tool holder, the pre-tensioning unit being configured as a piston assembly with a pressure piston which can be loaded by a medium and with a switching unit (5) that operates by means of relative displacement between the housing and the tool holder. The switching unit has a least one electrically conducting switching surface (6) and at least one electrically conducting contact element (7) that can be brought into electrical contact with the switching surface, the switching surface (6) and the contact element (7) being provided on an opposing surface section (8) of the tool holder and the housing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a paper-breaker touching safety protector, of which the control circuit unit is connected with the paper-breaking machinery part via the motor driving circuit unit, the control circuit unit is connected with the conductive touch panel via the touch detecting circuit unit, the power unit is connected respectively with the control circuit unit and motor driving circuit unit, wherein the touch detecting circuit unit includes a bio-voltage control switch circuit and a ground switch circuit, the input control terminal of said bio-voltage control switch circuit is connected with the conductive touch panel, the output terminal of control switch circuit is connected with the input control terminal of the ground switch circuit, the output terminal of the ground switch circuit is connected with the input control terminal of the control circuit unit.

Abstract: A safety switching apparatus for safe disconnection of an electrical load has at least one input for connecting a signaling device. The safety switching apparatus further has an evaluation and control unit and at least one switching element which can be controlled by the evaluation and control unit in order to interrupt an electrical power supply path to the load. The evaluation and control unit is designed to carry out functional tests at defined instances of time in order to check at least one switching function of the at least one switching element. Moreover, the at least one input for connecting the signaling device is further designed as an input for supplying a supply voltage required for operation of the at least one switching element.

Abstract: An electronic switching device, which operates without contact, includes a single sensor element (1), a clock generator, which can be provided internally or which can be connected externally, an evaluation circuit (2), and an electronic or electromechanical switch (3), which is provided on an output side. The evaluation circuit (2) includes diversity processing units (4, 5), and a checking unit (6), wherein an output signal of the sensor element (1) is delivered in succession to the processing units (4, 5), and that output signals of the processing units (4, 5) are checked for consistency by the monitoring unit (6). Advantageously, with only a single sensor element (1), category 4 of EN 954-1 or safety level SIL 3 of EN 61508 requirements can be achieved.